DIO: Service Family Accommodation (SFA) Communications Update - 2 October 2026

Military families invited to help shape the future of Service Family Housing

The MOD has today launched the Red Tape Challenge, inviting families to tell us about processes that are getting in the way of them enjoying their homes, so that we can work to change them.

This is just one of a series of new pledges setting out clear commitments to Service families on the quality of their homes, customer service, and ensuring their voices are heard.

For more information and details on how to make a submission, click here.

Housing Matters – Episode 6

Episode 6 of the Housing Matters podcast is out now!

On this episode, actor and campaigner Anthony Cotton joins Emma Brett, Warrant Officer for Defence Homes, to talk about Service family accommodation and why having a home you can be proud of matters.

They discuss the improvements that have been made in recent years, while acknowledging there is still much more to do to ensure Service families have the homes they deserve.

This episode and all other episodes can be found on our “Housing Matters” Defence Homes page here.

DIO: Families First Newsletter – 2 October 2026 edition now available

To read this issue online, and any back issues, please go to: Families First newsletter – Defence Homes

Don’t forget that you can also sign up to receive Families First and other email updates from DIO Defence Homes, direct to your own inbox – please go to this link to subscribe: https://defencehomes.mod.gov.uk/newsletter-landing-page/

Bovington: Tank museum unveils festive tank-themed jumper

  

The Tank Museum in Bovington has launched its 2026 knitted jumper, with purchases directly supporting conservation and preservation of their collection.

This year’s festive knit features a seasonal snowy scene, with Santa riding on a Sherman tank while waving.

Assistant Marketing Manager, Gemma Butler, said: “Every year our Christmas range proves incredibly popular with tank fans around the globe. We are delighted to showcase our 2026 design, which captures the full range while supporting the Museum.

“Whether you're visiting us over Christmas or attending a seasonal gathering, it's guaranteed to make a statement.”

Alongside the festive jumper, The Tank Museum has launched a seasonal sweater featuring its iconic TOG II* tank disguised as a yule log with antlers, as well as a knitted winter cardigan.

The Tank Museum Shop offers hundreds of books, models, and clothing items inspired by armoured warfare history. Profits from purchases help support the Museum’s charitable efforts to tell the story of the tank and the people who served in them.

The launch coincides with a new shipping option from The Tank Museum Shop, with UK postage now available from £2.99.

View the full range and secure your Christmas jumper now by visiting tankmuseumshop.org. 

Information provided by  Bovington HIVE 

Girls Brigade: 'Forces Connect' free online group launched for girls aged 13+ from military families

The Girls' Brigade is currently partnering with the Methodist Forces Board to provide opportunities for girls and young women in military families. You can read all about the project on their website.

Are you aged 13+ and part of a military family? Join online for a fun, relaxed, and welcoming Girls’ Brigade session via Zoom! This special event is a great opportunity to connect with other young people from military families across the country, share experiences, and make new friends.

Who: Young people aged 13+ from military families

When: Thursday 15 October • 7 PM - 8:30 PM GMT

Where: Online via Zoom

Cost: FREE!

What to expect: We'll be diving into the fantastic Girls' Brigade programme. Expect a relevant Bible theme, a fun craft activity, and plenty of relaxed group discussions.

No matter where you are currently based, everyone is welcome. Come along, get involved, and discover a supportive community of young people who understand the unique journey of military life.

How to book: Spaces are free but must be booked in advance. https://girlsbrigadeonline.eventbrite.co.uk

Wraparound Childcare (WAC) - Armed Forces Personnel Portal Beta Testing

As part of the continued development of the Armed Forces Personnel Portal (AFPP), Defence are preparing to commence the next phase of Beta testing for the Wraparound Childcare (WAC) service. They are seeking current or recent WAC users who may be interested in supporting this important activity. User participation is essential to ensuring the service meets the needs of Service Personnel and their families and has been tested by representative users prior to wider release.

Expression of Interest Required

Any Service personnel who would like to be considered for participation in the Beta testing programme, please complete the Expression of Interest survey using the link below:

Expression of Interest Survey Link

Survey Deadline - The Expression of Interest survey will close at 2359hrs on Fri 23 Oct 26.

Only individuals who complete the survey by this deadline will be considered for participation in the Beta testing programme.

The Beta testing programme is currently planned to commence from Mon 2 Nov 26 and may be conducted across multiple iterative testing periods. This approach will enable the AFPP team to gather user feedback, implement improvements and, where required, re-test enhancements before wider release.

Lichfield: AWS CS Half Term - Rebound Trip - 28 October

 Please complete waiver for Rebound trip before the sign up via the link WAIVER for Rebound trip

Sign up for Rebound trip HERE

Information provided by: Central HIVE Hub

Lichfield: AWS CS Half Term Fun - Pumpkin Patch - 27 October

 Book to attend: via QR code or HERE

Information provided by Central HIVE Hub

Building Heroes: Training Close to Where You Plan to Resettle

 

Training Close to Where You Plan to Resettle

One of the most important decisions during transition is where to build your next chapter. Building Heroes programmes are delivered through a growing network of academies, helping members of the Armed Forces community access funded training in different parts of the country.

For Service Leavers preparing to resettle, this can be especially helpful. Training in or near the area where you hope to live after service can provide a practical introduction to the local construction and built environment sector, as well as the chance to meet employers and understand the opportunities available in that region.

Building Heroes academies are currently active across locations including Darlington, Reaseheath, Ibstock, Heybridge, Wembley, Drayton, Andover, Salisbury and Plymouth, with programmes shaped by local employer demand, academy facilities and available course pathways.

Learners may gain hands-on construction skills, recognised qualifications, sector insight and employability support, while also building confidence alongside others from the Armed Forces community. For many people, this combination of practical training and peer support helps make the move into civilian life feel more focused and achievable.

Whether you are exploring a trade, considering a career in retrofit or infrastructure, or simply looking for a positive first step into the sector, Building Heroes can help you understand your options and take that next step with support around you.

Places on our upcoming programmes are limited, and some cohorts are already attracting strong interest. Our next courses begin from 9 November, with further programmes starting in January and continuing at each half-term across our academy network. Anyone considering training for a new career in the region where they plan to resettle is encouraged to register their interest as early as possible.

To find out more and apply, visit: www.buildingheroes.org.uk/courses

Dorset: Craft fair - Sun 8th Nov

 

Unique local handmade crafts. Refreshments Free entry. Winfrith Newburgh village hall.

Information provided by Bovington HIVE

Dorset: Ceilidh night (dance & live music) - Fri 30th Oct. Ticket available now.

 

Information provided by Bovington HIVE